Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stowed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging check here you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with get more info disabilities, as it helps them save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be off road electric wheelchair crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. more info Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to power chairs for handicapped bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.